Pull-out Cabinet in Galley on the 34

[RainDog]

I have decided the pull-out cabinet above the ice box on the 34 is a waste of space. When I put anything in the back half it falls behind and then I cannot open the the cabinet. It seems like it is a big space it is occupying and it could be put to better use.

I was wondering if anyone has converted this space, and if so, what they did with it (pictures if you have them.)

Also wondering if someone who loves this space as it is can change my mind. If so how do you use it? It looks like the new boats have the same kind of cabinet. I wonder if it has be redesigned or it is exactly the same as on my 88.

[Norstar]

Previous owner of our 34 removed cabinet door and installed microwave in this space. Seems to be a good alternative. We use it once in a while at the dock but we don't have an inverter large enough to power it while on the hook.

John Schwab
PSC 34 # 201
Norstar Ventures, LLC

[MC1]

I've had the same problem you describe and will probably convert it for a microwave - on the "to do eventually" list.

[Lansdowne]

Our 34 had the pull out door replaced with a door that hinges at the bottom.
Leaves the entire space available for bread,dishes, whatever.
Works well as long as the top of the icebox is clear when you open the door.

However, if you decide to remove your dropdown; i would be intrested in trying out what you have. There must be a reason that Pacific Seacraft is still installing your setup.

Have you asked them their reasoning?

[wsmurdoch]

We have two sliding smoked plastic doors in front of the spot in the galley where most have a pull down cabinet. We still have the rounded fiberglass back, and there is a single shelf installed in the cabinet. Originally there were teak blocks and bungee cords on the bottom of the cabinet to hold pots in place, but I was unable to find pots that would fit, so I removed them. We keep the pots and pans on the bottom and other cooking things on the shelf.
The cabinet also contains the thermostats for the engine drive and 125v refrigeration systems.

Bill Murdoch
Irish Eyes
1988 PSC 34

[RainDog]

Originally Posted by Lansdowne

There must be a reason that Pacific Seacraft is still installing your setup.

Have you asked them their reasoning?

I have not, but I suspect I know what it is: it looks like a good idea. When I first saw it I thought it was a great idea. I have had several live-aboards on my boat that have commented favorably on it. I have even read reviews that comment on what a clever idea it is. I use mime to store plates and bowl and it is great for that.

It was not until I had lived with it for a while that it started to eat at me that that is a really large space, and I am only storing some plates and bowls in it.

I was also thinking it might be possible to add a fabric backing to keep items from sliding out the back. That would at least make the back part usable. I was hoping someone here had already tested a solution for that problem.

Originally Posted by Lansdowne

However, if you decide to remove your dropdown; i would be intrested in trying out what you have.

Do you mean if I pull it out, you would like to have it? If so PM me your email address. If I pull it out, you are welcome to it.